FORKS, Wash. — At least two homes were destroyed in a fast-moving brush fire in Forks on Tuesday evening.
The fire near Bogachiel Way led to evacuation notices in the area, according to Mayor Tim Fletcher. By 10 p.m., the fire was contained and under control, though three homes remained evacuated.
The fire burned between the fish hatchery and Valley View neighborhood and at one point 35 homes were evacuated in the Valley View neighborhood. A personal residence and a vacation home next door were destroyed in the fire.
It burned approximately 35-40 acres before it was contained. It is unclear how it started.
Fletcher announced all Fourth of July celebrations, including fireworks, have been canceled due to the fire. A demolition derby was also canceled because fire crews were called to the brush fire, so they didn't have anyone standing by for car fires.
Power was cut to the area. Residents are being told to prepare to be without power for "some time," according to county officials.
Clallam County, Forks and the Department of Natural Resources are on the scene.
The American Red Cross is opening an emergency shelter at Forks High School in response. The shelter is expected to open by 9 p.m. on July 4.
There is a total burn ban and firework ban now in the boundaries of the city.
"Today, and unfortunately until October, our side of the mountains has a high fire risk," Clallam County Fire District 1 wrote in a Facebook post.
Fire evacuation levels
Fires have different levels of severity. In both Washington and Idaho, they can be thought of as READY, SET, GO.
LEVEL 1 - READY
This is the getting ready stage. Conditions could get worse, so you want to have your go bag ready.
LEVEL 2 - SET
This is when you are getting set to leave. Be prepared to leave at a moment's notice.
LEVEL 3 - GO
This is when you need to get out and go now. You are in immediate danger and emergency services may not be able to help at this point.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
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